81. Feeling Better: Managing Chronic Pain and Gambling

Fold em: Help for Gambling Problems

If you live with chronic pain and gamble, you're more at risk for developing a gambling problem. If you've had a gambling problem and live with chronic pain and/or health conditions, it's important to get help for both issues to prevent a relapse.

In this episode of Fold em, hear Patty's personal story. She tells us that when she was gambling, both physical pain as well as stress and worry decreased. However, over time as gambling got out of control, it made life much more difficult for her. Patty shares how recovery provided her with the patience and support needed to steadily pursue treatment for her health conditions. And, although these haven't gone away, she's feeling much better.

You also hear from Kuldip Gill, a Registered Clinical Counsellor in Vancouver who is a clinician with Gambling Support BC. She explains why chronic pain creates risk for gambling addiction and offers guidance on how to address both pain and gambling issues successfully.

Listen to episode 81 and hear:

• Why it is important to be cautious if you gamble and experience chronic pain or health issues
• A personal story of stopping gambling and getting help for pain and health issues
• How to help yourself feel better as you pull back from gambling

If you want to learn more, read the blog for this episode at www.problemgamblinghelp.ca

To connect with Fold em through Facebook or Instagram, find us at Foldem Podcast. You can also reach out through [e-mail]. We welcome feedback and topics for upcoming episodes.

If you live in British Columbia and would like help for gambling concerns, reach out to our free, confidential counselling and outreach services. Connect with us online at Gambling Support BC or call 1-888-795-6111.

To connect with gambling problem help outside of British Columbia:

Canada: click here

United States: National Council on Problem Gambling

United Kingdom: GamCare

Australia: Gamblers' Help

If you live outside of these areas, search online for "Gambling Problem Help" in your country.

To connect with online groups and supports, here's some options:

Gamblers Anonymous

Gam-Anon

GamTalk (online chat forum)

Recovery Road Online

Gamblers, Families and Friends in Recovery

The Broke Girl Society

Fold em is funded by Gambling Support BC.